Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my German in San Mateo, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have a few primary options for learning German interactively in San Mateo, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your 2nd option can be local specialized language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can look for a private German tutor in San Mateo, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local San Mateo, CA and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn German and what are the ballpark lesson costs for German tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 class hours each semester. Language academies and individual German tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced German tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, positive reviews and popularity. Real student rating average for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for German language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research the details in advance. With personal German tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is German so difficult and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn German. As proven by others before, you can gain basic German fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand common expressions, express yourself, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have German tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of German?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in German will take at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of German or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in German out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the German tutor?
In language centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, always! The largest selection of approved German tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.